When I made roasted poblano and smoked gouda mac and cheese for the first time, I couldn’t stop smiling because the flavors were absolutely divine.

The smoky kick of roasted poblanos combined with the gooey creaminess of gourmet cheeses made it more than just a pasta dish. It’s comfort food elevated, a harmony of heat, texture, and richness that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

I honestly didn’t expect how quickly this dish would steal the show. It’s perfect for everything—from a cozy dinner at home to a standout side dish for holiday meals. I love how adaptable it is. You can tweak the spice level or the cheese blend, and each version feels like a new creation.

And the crispy panko topping? Heavenly! If you’re looking for a creamy, cheesy pasta dish with depth and a dash of spice, this is the recipe for you. 🧀🌶🍝

Roasted Poblano and Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This isn’t your average mac and cheese. Here’s why it’s a culinary gem you’ll want to make over and over again.

Bursting with Flavor

Smoked gouda and roasted poblanos bring a smoky, slightly spicy touch that’s balanced with cheesy richness. It’s a flavor profile you won’t forget. Every bite delivers a perfect harmony of bold, creamy, and slightly charred notes.

Perfect Comfort Food

Gooey, creamy sauce envelopes tender pasta, offering the kind of comfort that makes you grab a second helping without hesitation. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for any season or mood.

Customizable for Any Palate

Dial up the heat with extra poblanos or cayenne, or keep it mild for those who prefer subtle flavors. It’s easy to adapt. Plus, you can swap cheeses or add proteins like bacon or shredded chicken for a unique twist.

A Showstopper for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a contribution to a festive spread, this mac and cheese wows with its gourmet appeal. It’s rich enough to impress guests but simple enough to make any day feel special.

Crispy, Golden Topping

The crunchy panko breadcrumb topping adds the perfect texture contrast to the creamy pasta underneath. A quick broil at the end ensures an irresistibly crisp, buttery crust that takes it over the top.

Cooking Time

Here’s how much time you’ll need to make this luscious dish.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients

You’ll need these key ingredients to create this upgraded mac and cheese.

Dry pasta
Poblano peppers
Unsalted butter
All-purpose flour
Heavy cream
Mustard powder
Mascarpone cheese
Smoked gouda cheese
Aged white cheddar cheese
Sharp cheddar cheese
Cajun seasoning
Cayenne pepper
Smoked paprika
Black pepper
Kosher salt
Panko breadcrumbs

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully versatile! Change things up to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Ingredient Options

Spice Level: Swap poblanos with jalapeños for more heat, or use roasted red bell peppers for a milder version.
Cheese Choices: Try gruyère or brie for added flavor complexity.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta, flour, and breadcrumbs to make this dish celiac-friendly.

Equipment Needed

Baking Sheet: For roasting poblano peppers.
Large Pot: To cook pasta and the cheese sauce.
Whisk: Ideal for creating a smooth, lump-free béchamel sauce.
Baking Dish: For assembling and baking the mac and cheese.

How to Make Roasted Poblano and Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese?

Transform a simple mac and cheese into something extraordinary with these easy steps!

Roast the Poblanos🌶

Start by roasting the poblano peppers. Cut them into strips, place them skin-side up on a baking sheet, and broil on high for 6-10 minutes until the skins are charred. Once out of the oven, seal the strips in a ziplock bag for 5 minutes to steam. Peel off the skins, dice the peppers, and set them aside.

Cook the Pasta

Boil your favorite pasta shape in salted water for 75% of the recommended cook time. Drain it, and if needed, drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside while you make the sauce.

Create the Cheese Sauce🧀

Make a blonde roux by melting butter in a pot over medium heat and whisking in flour. Slowly add heavy cream while whisking constantly, then stir in mustard powder. Once thickened, mix in mascarpone, smoked gouda, white cheddar, and sharp cheddar until melted and smooth. Add the diced poblanos, Cajun seasoning, cayenne, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Assemble and Bake🍲

Combine the pasta with the cheese sauce and transfer to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the top for a satisfying crunch. Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until bubbly, then broil the top for a golden-brown finish.

Serve and Enjoy

Allow the mac and cheese to rest for five minutes before serving. The spicy, smoky flavors combined with the creamy texture will have everyone coming back for more.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Want to make it perfect every time? Here are some helpful tips.

Shred Your Cheese: Pre-shredded cheeses have anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Always use freshly grated cheese for the best texture.
Don’t Overbake: Bake just until bubbly. Overbaking can cause the cheese sauce to separate and lose its creamy consistency.
Balance the Heat: If you’re not a fan of spice, halve the poblanos or omit the cayenne. Adjust the heat to your liking without sacrificing flavor.

How to Serve Roasted Poblano and Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese?

This dish shines as a main course or a side. Serve it up with these simple ideas.

Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or green onions for a fresh pop of color.
Pair it with roasted meats like beef tenderloin, chicken, or pork for a complete meal.
Add a glass of wine, such as a Chardonnay or Rosé, to complement the flavors beautifully.

Nutritional Information

Here’s the nutrition you’ll enjoy with each serving of this rich and hearty dish.

Calories: 413
Protein: 13g
Carbohydrates: 47g
Fat: 19g

Make Ahead and Storage

This mac and cheese is just as comforting as leftovers, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Make Ahead

You can prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking stage and store it in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to serve, allow it to come to room temperature before baking and broiling.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm it gently in the oven at 350°F. Avoid heating it too quickly to maintain the creamy sauce texture.

Rich, creamy, and packed with a smoky kick, roasted poblano and smoked gouda mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort dish. Make it your own, and enjoy every cheesy, gooey bite! 🍝✨